Survey Finds Increasing Support for LIHEAP

A public opinion survey by the Campaign for Home Energy Assistance found that more Americans than ever before believe low-income families are having a harder time paying their utility bills and that Congress should spend more to protect the elderly and disabled from deadly temperature extremes.

The survey, released September 24 said that nearly eight out of 10 Americans - 78 percent - believe it is more difficult now than five years ago for low-income families to pay for their energy bills. The figure represents an historic high and compares with 67 percent in a similar study three years ago.

The survey found a record 89 percent support level for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), up five percentage points from 1999. It also found that 72 percent support expanded funding for the program - with 31 percent advocating a substantial increase and 40 percent supporting a moderate increase in the program.

The study is the third of its kind to survey the nation in depth for its views on the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. The earlier surveys were conducted in June 1998 and July-August 1999. The complete survey report can be found at: http://www.liheap.org/research/summary020820.html

Page Last Updated: December 7, 2005